Leonardo-Finmeccanica, NTU To Develop Helicopter Manufacturing Tech

Leonardo-Finmeccanica and Nanyang Technological University (NTU Singapore), signed an agreement to start research collaboration in integrated and innovative composites helicopter structure and helicopter aerodynamics.

The agreement follows the Memorandum of Understanding signed in February in Singapore and establishes a partnership to contribute to the aerospace technological advancement by sharing talents and know-how, promoting scientific research and developing engineering and industrial capabilities, Leonardo-Finmeccanica said in a statement Tuesday.

The collaboration will seek to further technology opportunities in the rotary wing sector - whose changes are characterised by the progress in composite materials, reduction in hydraulics and dynamic components and growing efficiency in industrial processes. Joint projects may include research in innovative methods to advance the manufacturing of Leonardo-Finmeccanica’s products, through the use of new composite materials which are lighter and stronger. The collaboration will also expand aerodynamics research modelling, which can potentially improve overall flight performance.

NTU Chief of Staff and Vice-President of Research Professor Lam Khin Yong said: “NTU’s mechanical and aerospace engineering faculty will work with engineers from Leonardo-Finmeccanica to research and develop new aerodynamics and manufacturing technologies that can be used in next-generation helicopters and aircrafts.”